Contextual, embedded and affinity insurance journeys based on contextual data

Habit

habit

Fifteen years ago, crypto wasn’t on the mainstream media’s radar; but today, it frequently captures the spotlight on drive-time, lunch-time, and evening news channels, drawing both seasoned investors and curious newcomers into its orbit. While it’s exciting to witness this once-niche market gaining traction as the flood of crypto headlines inundate our newsfeeds, we have to ask: can we have too much of a good thing? Taking note of every headline as the ticker goes up; and down (sometimes multiple times a day) would be akin to suffering from investor whiplash… Sensationalism vs. substance Crypto headlines often oscillate between extremes. A prime example of this is a headline that read “Ethereum price lags”; while another read “Ethereum trader strikes gold as prices soar…” From exuberant predictions around astronomical gains to dire warnings of impending collapse - and everything in between - it can be hard to make head or tail of what’s actually going on. A broader view of crypto investment takes into account the long-term fundamentals that drive crypto adoption and value, including technological innovation, adoption by institutions and mainstream users, regulatory developments, macroeconomic trends, and societal acceptance. When investors read too much into market sentiment fueled only by headlines, they risk making short-sighted investment decisions fuelled by market manipulation and short-term noise. Understanding the broader context: the crypto market cycle “Do your own research" (DYOR) is a cardinal rule in investment circles, underlining the importance of doing your own independent analysis and due diligence before making financial decisions. In the dynamic world of crypto, this mantra holds particular significance where relying solely on hearsay (including mainstream media narratives) or social media hype can lead investors astray, exposing them to unnecessary risks and potential losses. To navigate the crypto landscape effectively, astute investors are those who have taken the time to understand the nuances of Bitcoin’s market cycle (and its effect on altcoins such as Ethereum). This four-year cycle is often referred to as the ‘halving cycle’ and has been historically closely linked to price, with the cycle progressing through ‘Bull’ (rising prices); ‘Bear’ (falling prices); ‘Accumulation’ (a leveling out of prices) and ‘Expansion’ (steady growth). Importantly, within each of these phases, there might be rallies, reactions, and a lot of volatility on (hopefully) the way up. Disclaimer: Crypto is volatile, carries risk and the value can go up and down. Past performance is not an indicator of future returns. Please DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH! Back to basics: time-tested investment strategies Amidst a frenzy of post-halving headlines, investor disappointment around the absence of immediate spikes in price is real, but now is not the time to abandon proven investment principles. Instead, investors should anchor their strategies in time-tested approaches designed to weather market volatility: Dollar-cost averaging (DCA): Embrace the discipline of regularly investing fixed amounts, irrespective of market conditions. DCA mitigates the impact of short-term price fluctuations by averaging out costs over time and promoting a steady accumulation of assets.


The Hold-On-for-Dear-Life (HODL) strategy: In a market rife with volatility, the HODL mantra focuses on the importance of long-term conviction over short-term speculation. By focusing on the intrinsic value and fundamentals of assets, rather than succumbing to market hysteria, investors can cultivate their resilience.


Diversification: Diversification remains a cornerstone of sound investment practice, and sees investors spread investments across different assets (such as types of coins) to minimize risk from volatile market swings. A diversified portfolio fosters resilience and safeguards against unforeseen market turbulence. Don’t let hype eclipse substance! While an influx of crypto headlines signifies exciting maturation of the digital asset ecosystem, excessive fixation on sensational news can prove highly detrimental to investors' long-term success. By exercising discernment amidst the noise, understanding the broader market context, and adhering to time-tested investment strategies, investors can navigate the crypto landscape with confidence. Fifteen years ago, crypto wasn’t on the mainstream media’s radar; but today, it frequently captures the spotlight on drive-time, lunch-time, and evening news channels, drawing both seasoned investors and curious newcomers into its orbit. crypto While it’s exciting to witness this once-niche market gaining traction as the flood of crypto headlines inundate our newsfeeds, we have to ask: can we have too much of a good thing? Taking note of every headline as the ticker goes up; and down (sometimes multiple times a day) would be akin to suffering from investor whiplash… Sensationalism vs. substance Sensationalism vs. substance Crypto headlines often oscillate between extremes. A prime example of this is a headline that read “Ethereum price lags”; while another read “Ethereum trader strikes gold as prices soar…” From exuberant predictions around astronomical gains to dire warnings of impending collapse - and everything in between - it can be hard to make head or tail of what’s actually going on. actually A broader view of crypto investment takes into account the long-term fundamentals that drive crypto adoption and value, including technological innovation, adoption by institutions and mainstream users, regulatory developments, macroeconomic trends, and societal acceptance. When investors read too much into market sentiment fueled only by headlines, they risk making short-sighted investment decisions fuelled by market manipulation and short-term noise. Understanding the broader context: the crypto market cycle Understanding the broader context: the crypto market cycle “Do your own research" (DYOR) is a cardinal rule in investment circles, underlining the importance of doing your own independent analysis and due diligence before making financial decisions. In the dynamic world of crypto, this mantra holds particular significance where relying solely on hearsay (including mainstream media narratives) or social media hype can lead investors astray, exposing them to unnecessary risks and potential losses. To navigate the crypto landscape effectively, astute investors are those who have taken the time to understand the nuances of Bitcoin’s market cycle (and its effect on altcoins such as Ethereum). This four-year cycle is often referred to as the ‘halving cycle’ and has been historically closely linked to price, with the cycle progressing through ‘Bull’ (rising prices); ‘Bear’ (falling prices); ‘Accumulation’ (a leveling out of prices) and ‘Expansion’ (steady growth). Importantly, within each of these phases, there might be rallies, reactions, and a lot of volatility on (hopefully) the way up. Disclaimer: Crypto is volatile, carries risk and the value can go up and down. Past performance is not an indicator of future returns. Please DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH! Disclaimer: Crypto is volatile, carries risk and the value can go up and down. Past performance is not an indicator of future returns. Please DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH! Back to basics: time-tested investment strategies Back to basics: time-tested investment strategies Amidst a frenzy of post-halving headlines, investor disappointment around the absence of immediate spikes in price is real, but now is not the time to abandon proven investment principles. Instead, investors should anchor their strategies in time-tested approaches designed to weather market volatility: absence of immediate spikes in price Dollar-cost averaging (DCA): Embrace the discipline of regularly investing fixed amounts, irrespective of market conditions. DCA mitigates the impact of short-term price fluctuations by averaging out costs over time and promoting a steady accumulation of assets. The Hold-On-for-Dear-Life (HODL) strategy: In a market rife with volatility, the HODL mantra focuses on the importance of long-term conviction over short-term speculation. By focusing on the intrinsic value and fundamentals of assets, rather than succumbing to market hysteria, investors can cultivate their resilience. Diversification: Diversification remains a cornerstone of sound investment practice, and sees investors spread investments across different assets (such as types of coins) to minimize risk from volatile market swings. A diversified portfolio fosters resilience and safeguards against unforeseen market turbulence. Dollar-cost averaging (DCA): Embrace the discipline of regularly investing fixed amounts, irrespective of market conditions. DCA mitigates the impact of short-term price fluctuations by averaging out costs over time and promoting a steady accumulation of assets. Dollar-cost averaging (DCA): Embrace the discipline of regularly investing fixed amounts, irrespective of market conditions. DCA mitigates the impact of short-term price fluctuations by averaging out costs over time and promoting a steady accumulation of assets. Dollar-cost averaging (DCA): The Hold-On-for-Dear-Life (HODL) strategy: In a market rife with volatility, the HODL mantra focuses on the importance of long-term conviction over short-term speculation. By focusing on the intrinsic value and fundamentals of assets, rather than succumbing to market hysteria, investors can cultivate their resilience. The Hold-On-for-Dear-Life (HODL) strategy: In a market rife with volatility, the HODL mantra focuses on the importance of long-term conviction over short-term speculation. By focusing on the intrinsic value and fundamentals of assets, rather than succumbing to market hysteria, investors can cultivate their resilience. The Hold-On-for-Dear-Life (HODL) strategy: Diversification: Diversification remains a cornerstone of sound investment practice, and sees investors spread investments across different assets (such as types of coins) to minimize risk from volatile market swings. A diversified portfolio fosters resilience and safeguards against unforeseen market turbulence. Diversification: Diversification remains a cornerstone of sound investment practice, and sees investors spread investments across different assets (such as types of coins) to minimize risk from volatile market swings. A diversified portfolio fosters resilience and safeguards against unforeseen market turbulence. Diversification: Don’t let hype eclipse substance! While an influx of crypto headlines signifies exciting maturation of the digital asset ecosystem, excessive fixation on sensational news can prove highly detrimental to investors' long-term success. By exercising discernment amidst the noise, understanding the broader market context, and adhering to time-tested investment strategies, investors can navigate the crypto landscape with confidence.

Why Obsessing Over Crypto Headlines Is a Dangerous Investment Habit

Going from a mediocre team to an elite team can seem daunting, especially when we need to figure out where to start. The DevOps Research and Assessment (DORA) can be our north star, helping us build the habits and practices we need to be elite. We'll look at DORA, the challenges of building habits, and how to form habits that stick. What Is DORA? The DevOps Research and Assessment (DORA) report focuses on four key areas to measure elite teams: Lead time: How long does it take from code committed to running in production
Deploy frequency: How often does our organization deploy to production
Change fail percentage: How often do we need to rollback, patch, hotfix, or fix forward after a change
Failed deployment recovery time: How long does it generally take to recover service The challenge here is going from knowing about those four areas that need to be worked on so that we go from being a mediocre team to an elite squad scoring a ten on the DORA quick check. The four measurements of an elite team are: Lead time is less than one hour


Deploy frequency is on-demand (multiple deploys per day)


The change fail percentage is ideally 0%


Failed deployment recovery time is less than one hour To see where tour team currently places, try the DORA quick check. This blog will focus on the tools, technologies, practices, culture, and philosophies that will help teams become elite. Improvements in our work take time since we need to break old habits that don't serve us well and build new ones. This blog will keep that in mind as we move through different topics. Each post will have an invitation to try out what we learn. If there are any questions or issues that need to be covered, make use of the comments section to submit the question. The Challenges of Forming New Habits We've all seen New Year's Resolutions and possibly have had some of our own. According to the Forbes report in 2024, 53% of those surveyed had given up on their New Year's Resolutions by the end of March. For many people, sticking to a new resolution or goal is challenging. There is now a day known as Ditch New Year's Resolution Day, which during 2024 fell on January 17th. While the media paints a picture of a significant stumbling block, statistics show it's less troublesome than perceived. We can see the reality of the quit rate in the chart below: Source Why Do People Fail in Their New Resolutions/Habits? In an article by James Clear, he outlines five reasons our new habits might fail: Trying to change more than one thing at a time


Setting big goals without breaking them down into smaller steps


Seeking a result, not the ritual


We have not changed the environment in which we perform our good habits, so we quickly revert to our bad habits


Assuming small changes don't add up However, there are ways to set ourselves up for success. In the book Atomic Habits, James talks about three key lessons: Small habits make a big difference.
Forget about setting goals. Instead, focus on the system.
Build identity-based habits. The Impact of Habits Building identity-based habits means, for example, instead of saying I go running, we say we're runners, or instead of saying we paint, we say we're painters. There is a subtle difference in the wording, but if we start to think we're runners, that can lead to thinking, what does a runner do? It could mean changing the food we eat, how often we train, when we train, and the goals we set for ourselves. If we focus on getting 1% better every day in one year, we'll end up being 37 times better than when we started. It means that anything we set our mind to can profoundly impact us. It may not be noticeable at first, but as the changes compound over time, we will notice that we're a different person than when we started. Like a cliff being eroded over time by the waves, at the start, we overlook the impact each wave has, but over time, we see how the cliff face changes in its shape. How Do I Go About Creating and Maintaining Habits? In the Habits Cheatsheet, James Clear talks about the four laws to create a good habit: The 1st law (Cue): Make it obvious
The 2nd law (Craving): Make it attractive
The 3rd law (Response): Make it easy
The 4th law (Reward): Make it satisfying As an example, let's say we've decided that we want to drink more water every day. We could make it obvious by placing a water bottle on our desk so that we can't miss it. Having a nice bottle or putting some lemon or mint in the water would be attractive. To make it easy, we fill the water bottle the night before so we don't have to think about it in the morning. Then, to make it satisfying, we could have a calendar above our desk where we put a sticker to mark each day that we've managed to empty our water bottle. How Do I Beat My Old Bad Habits? Again, in the Habits Cheatsheet, there are the inverse laws for avoiding our bad habits: Inversion of the 1st law (Cue): Make it invisible
Inversion of the 2nd law (Craving): Make it unattractive
Inversion of the 3rd law (Response): Make it difficult
Inversion of the 4th law (Reward): Make it unsatisfying Let's say we want to watch less TV. We could make it invisible by placing the TV out of view, moving it to another room, or inside a cupboard. We might unsubscribe to our streaming accounts and TV subscriptions to make it unattractive. To make it difficult, we place the TV's power cord or remote control in another room. Finally, to make it unsatisfying, we could have an accountability partner that we check in with, with whom we will have to confess that we ended up watching TV. The Next Steps As we reflect on our DORA scores, we have an opportunity to identify areas where we can improve by forming new habits. The DORA quick check provides guidance on key areas we can work on to improve our score. In our team, we can decide what to work on to raise our score, moving us from developers to software craftspeople. Then, we can form habits to help us make lasting changes. For example, if we identify a need to reduce lead time, we may realize our review process is slowing us down. When we explore it, we recognize we need to set aside time to review the code. We could take a habit-stacking approach. For example, when we open our laptops in the morning (our current habit), we first review all of the pull requests that are pending review for us. Another could be first to review pull requests after our lunch break. To make it attractive, we might realize that the pull requests lack enough information, so we add a pull request template so all the information is there. Then, to make it easy, we could have a simple way for people to launch the application and see the change. To make it satisfying, we could recognize a person each week who does a great job of meaningful reviews and helps speed up the delivery of features. Conclusion We've explored the DORA report and how it measures teams' ability to deliver software. We've examined how habits are the foundation of meeting our goals/resolutions, looking at good and bad habits. Our challenge is to move from software developers to software craftspeople, using our daily habits to help us transform. References State of DevOps Report: https://cloud.google.com/devops/state-of-devops
DORA quick check assessment: https://dora.dev/quickcheck/
Forbes article on New Year's Resolutions Statistics: https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/new-years-resolutions-statistics/
5 Common Mistakes That Cause New Habits to Fail: https://jamesclear.com/habits-fail
Atomic Habits book by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
Summary of the Atomic Habits book by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits-summary
Continuous Improvement - How It Works and How to Master It: https://jamesclear.com/continuous-improvement
Habits cheatsheets: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits/cheatsheet
Habit stacking: https://jamesclear.com/habit-stacking The lead image was generated using Microsoft Designer. Going from a mediocre team to an elite team can seem daunting, especially when we need to figure out where to start. The DevOps Research and Assessment (DORA) can be our north star, helping us build the habits and practices we need to be elite. We'll look at DORA, the challenges of building habits, and how to form habits that stick. What Is DORA? The DevOps Research and Assessment (DORA) report focuses on four key areas to measure elite teams: report report Lead time: How long does it take from code committed to running in production Deploy frequency: How often does our organization deploy to production Change fail percentage: How often do we need to rollback, patch, hotfix, or fix forward after a change Failed deployment recovery time: How long does it generally take to recover service Lead time: How long does it take from code committed to running in production Lead time: Deploy frequency: How often does our organization deploy to production Deploy frequency: Change fail percentage: How often do we need to rollback, patch, hotfix, or fix forward after a change Change fail percentage: Failed deployment recovery time: How long does it generally take to recover service Failed deployment recovery time: The challenge here is going from knowing about those four areas that need to be worked on so that we go from being a mediocre team to an elite squad scoring a ten on the DORA quick check. The four measurements of an elite team are: The four measurements of an elite team are: Lead time is less than one hour Deploy frequency is on-demand (multiple deploys per day) The change fail percentage is ideally 0% Failed deployment recovery time is less than one hour Lead time is less than one hour Lead time is less than one hour Deploy frequency is on-demand (multiple deploys per day) Deploy frequency is on-demand (multiple deploys per day) The change fail percentage is ideally 0% The change fail percentage is ideally 0% Failed deployment recovery time is less than one hour Failed deployment recovery time is less than one hour To see where tour team currently places, try the DORA quick check . DORA quick check DORA quick check This blog will focus on the tools, technologies, practices, culture, and philosophies that will help teams become elite. Improvements in our work take time since we need to break old habits that don't serve us well and build new ones. This blog will keep that in mind as we move through different topics. Each post will have an invitation to try out what we learn. If there are any questions or issues that need to be covered, make use of the comments section to submit the question. The Challenges of Forming New Habits We've all seen New Year's Resolutions and possibly have had some of our own. According to the Forbes report in 2024, 53% of those surveyed had given up on their New Year's Resolutions by the end of March. For many people, sticking to a new resolution or goal is challenging. There is now a day known as Ditch New Year's Resolution Day, which during 2024 fell on January 17th. While the media paints a picture of a significant stumbling block, statistics show it's less troublesome than perceived. We can see the reality of the quit rate in the chart below: Source Source Why Do People Fail in Their New Resolutions/Habits? In an article by James Clear, he outlines five reasons our new habits might fail: article article Trying to change more than one thing at a time Setting big goals without breaking them down into smaller steps Seeking a result, not the ritual We have not changed the environment in which we perform our good habits, so we quickly revert to our bad habits Assuming small changes don't add up Trying to change more than one thing at a time Trying to change more than one thing at a time Setting big goals without breaking them down into smaller steps Setting big goals without breaking them down into smaller steps Seeking a result, not the ritual Seeking a result, not the ritual We have not changed the environment in which we perform our good habits, so we quickly revert to our bad habits We have not changed the environment in which we perform our good habits, so we quickly revert to our bad habits Assuming small changes don't add up Assuming small changes don't add up However, there are ways to set ourselves up for success. In the book Atomic Habits , James talks about three key lessons : Atomic Habits three key lessons three key lessons Small habits make a big difference. Forget about setting goals. Instead, focus on the system. Build identity-based habits. Small habits make a big difference. Forget about setting goals. Instead, focus on the system. Build identity-based habits. The Impact of Habits Building identity-based habits means, for example, instead of saying I go running, we say we're runners, or instead of saying we paint, we say we're painters. There is a subtle difference in the wording, but if we start to think we're runners, that can lead to thinking, what does a runner do? It could mean changing the food we eat, how often we train, when we train, and the goals we set for ourselves. If we focus on getting 1% better every day in one year, we'll end up being 37 times better than when we started. It means that anything we set our mind to can profoundly impact us. It may not be noticeable at first, but as the changes compound over time, we will notice that we're a different person than when we started. Like a cliff being eroded over time by the waves, at the start, we overlook the impact each wave has, but over time, we see how the cliff face changes in its shape. How Do I Go About Creating and Maintaining Habits? In the Habits Cheatsheet , James Clear talks about the four laws to create a good habit: Habits Cheatsheet The 1st law (Cue): Make it obvious The 2nd law (Craving): Make it attractive The 3rd law (Response): Make it easy The 4th law (Reward): Make it satisfying The 1st law ( Cue ): Make it obvious Cue The 2nd law ( Craving ): Make it attractive Craving The 3rd law ( Response ): Make it easy Response The 4th law ( Reward ): Make it satisfying Reward As an example, let's say we've decided that we want to drink more water every day. We could make it obvious by placing a water bottle on our desk so that we can't miss it. Having a nice bottle or putting some lemon or mint in the water would be attractive. To make it easy, we fill the water bottle the night before so we don't have to think about it in the morning. Then, to make it satisfying, we could have a calendar above our desk where we put a sticker to mark each day that we've managed to empty our water bottle. How Do I Beat My Old Bad Habits? Again, in the Habits Cheatsheet, there are the inverse laws for avoiding our bad habits: Inversion of the 1st law (Cue): Make it invisible Inversion of the 2nd law (Craving): Make it unattractive Inversion of the 3rd law (Response): Make it difficult Inversion of the 4th law (Reward): Make it unsatisfying Inversion of the 1st law ( Cue ): Make it invisible Cue Inversion of the 2nd law ( Craving ): Make it unattractive Craving Inversion of the 3rd law ( Response ): Make it difficult Response Inversion of the 4th law ( Reward ): Make it unsatisfying Reward Let's say we want to watch less TV. We could make it invisible by placing the TV out of view, moving it to another room, or inside a cupboard. We might unsubscribe to our streaming accounts and TV subscriptions to make it unattractive. To make it difficult, we place the TV's power cord or remote control in another room. Finally, to make it unsatisfying, we could have an accountability partner that we check in with, with whom we will have to confess that we ended up watching TV. The Next Steps As we reflect on our DORA scores, we have an opportunity to identify areas where we can improve by forming new habits. The DORA quick check provides guidance on key areas we can work on to improve our score. In our team, we can decide what to work on to raise our score, moving us from developers to software craftspeople. Then, we can form habits to help us make lasting changes. For example, if we identify a need to reduce lead time, we may realize our review process is slowing us down. When we explore it, we recognize we need to set aside time to review the code. We could take a habit-stacking approach. For example, when we open our laptops in the morning (our current habit), we first review all of the pull requests that are pending review for us. Another could be first to review pull requests after our lunch break. habit-stacking pull requests To make it attractive, we might realize that the pull requests lack enough information, so we add a pull request template so all the information is there. Then, to make it easy, we could have a simple way for people to launch the application and see the change. To make it satisfying, we could recognize a person each week who does a great job of meaningful reviews and helps speed up the delivery of features. Conclusion We've explored the DORA report and how it measures teams' ability to deliver software. We've examined how habits are the foundation of meeting our goals/resolutions, looking at good and bad habits. Our challenge is to move from software developers to software craftspeople, using our daily habits to help us transform. References State of DevOps Report: https://cloud.google.com/devops/state-of-devops DORA quick check assessment: https://dora.dev/quickcheck/ Forbes article on New Year's Resolutions Statistics: https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/new-years-resolutions-statistics/ 5 Common Mistakes That Cause New Habits to Fail: https://jamesclear.com/habits-fail Atomic Habits book by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits Summary of the Atomic Habits book by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits-summary Continuous Improvement - How It Works and How to Master It: https://jamesclear.com/continuous-improvement Habits cheatsheets: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits/cheatsheet Habit stacking: https://jamesclear.com/habit-stacking State of DevOps Report: https://cloud.google.com/devops/state-of-devops https://cloud.google.com/devops/state-of-devops https://cloud.google.com/devops/state-of-devops DORA quick check assessment: https://dora.dev/quickcheck/ https://dora.dev/quickcheck/ https://dora.dev/quickcheck/ Forbes article on New Year's Resolutions Statistics: https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/new-years-resolutions-statistics/ https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/new-years-resolutions-statistics/ https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/new-years-resolutions-statistics/ 5 Common Mistakes That Cause New Habits to Fail: https://jamesclear.com/habits-fail https://jamesclear.com/habits-fail https://jamesclear.com/habits-fail Atomic Habits book by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits Summary of the Atomic Habits book by James Clear: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits-summary https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits-summary https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits-summary Continuous Improvement - How It Works and How to Master It: https://jamesclear.com/continuous-improvement https://jamesclear.com/continuous-improvement https://jamesclear.com/continuous-improvement Habits cheatsheets: https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits/cheatsheet https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits/cheatsheet https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits/cheatsheet Habit stacking: https://jamesclear.com/habit-stacking https://jamesclear.com/habit-stacking https://jamesclear.com/habit-stacking The lead image was generated using Microsoft Designer. The lead image was generated using Microsoft Designer . Microsoft Designer Microsoft Designer

Elite Teams Are Built on Strong Habits

The path of least resistance is already open. Remember when learning to code felt like trying to crack a secret code? It seemed like only the tech-savvy elite had the key to unlock this world. But things are changing! Picture this: just like English has become an international language, platforms like Webflow are shaking up the IT scene, making it easy for anyone to dive into web development. So, what's the deal with Webflow? Think of it as universal English, but in programming. It opens up a wealth of opportunities. Being able to work with low-code and no-code tools allows you to quickly immerse yourself in the digital world and make your mark on a global scale. It helps everyone, regardless of their background, current occupation, and baggage in web development to master the technology and start creating cool stuff in no time. In this article, I aim to capture the vibrant essence of Webflow and share my list of five habits. These habits are designed to empower everyday individuals, like you and me, to unlock our web-wizardry potential. With Webflow as our ally, the realm of IT transforms into a comprehensible and welcoming space where creativity knows no bounds. Why Webflow? Webflow suddenly entered my life when I had just left my previous work in the shop. During this period, I was inspired by the ideas of Webflow and began to study it. The idea of no-code was not yet so popular and was only gaining momentum. But what do we see now? Webflow has a huge community (85,000+ members), its own awards, a large number of online and offline events, and an annual conference, which is the most anticipated event in the Webflow community. Now, this is a huge space that has accumulated incredibly talented people. When a community of successful people grows, this is the best confirmation of the development of the field, isn’t it? Webflow is a platform that allows you to develop websites without code knowledge. Webflow serves as a gateway to develop fundamental IT skills and understanding of web development. It is a great platform for both starting a career and deep advancement in the future. It allows you to delve deeper into web development as you gain experience and expertise, without stopping at just the basic functionality. The power of Webflow lies in the following: Quality training courses in the open source - it's free to learn how to use Webflow. An intuitive interface. Super-functional CMS. Apps Integrations that increase the power and capabilities of Webflow. Clean code of the finished product. Ease of publishing and handing over the project to the client. I’m keen to expand the number of people who understand how the web development industry works and, of course, this increase will inevitably lead to more competition in the web development market. However, I’m convinced that it also naturally breeds an improvement in the quality of the finished product. Ultimately, the success of each of us guarantees the improvement of the whole world. Top 5 Habits for Newcomers in web-development. On your journey from starting your IT career towards improvement and success, I suggest you enlist the help of the following habits: Focus of attention Whether it's improving your English, learning a new platform, or mastering a new skill or habit, the focus of your attention is directly proportional to the strengthening of those skills. But there's always something that keeps us from focusing on our goal. First, identify it and remove it from your life. In my case, it was endlessly scrolling through my Instagram feed. I filled even a 5-second pause with a 15-minute interruption. So finally I deleted the app from my phone, but left access from my laptop (not all at once, guys). I just made access to Instagram uncomfortable for me. And from day one, I felt a lightness. I now channel my daily supply of willpower into self-development instead of fighting the urge to swipe the feed. Time management every day Without a clear plan for the coming day, you will start doing everything that comes your way. Every little thing will look like a very important task, but once you get to the important one you don't have enough resources to do it. In researching this topic, I've developed 2 creative ways for me to plan my day. Each one is perfect on really busy days, so choose what suits you best. Method A - Changing Circumstances. : write a plan for the day based on the changing circumstances during that day. Example: I became a mum and my whole day is scheduled depending on what my child is doing: The idea Is my child healthy and in kindergarten/school or sick and at home? Are there other people besides me who can look after the child for a while? Does my child sleep in the afternoon or not? Do any everyday routines need to be done today? What time did she fall asleep tonight? and so on. It turns out that I have several ready-made variants of events and a detailed plan for each case. I use them as a template and can quickly orientate how my day will be organized further. Here’s a sample day plan: Method B - Look at your day like you’re watching a film When I know ahead of time that I have a lot to do the next day, I write what I call a script of tomorrow with me in the lead role. The idea: to describe in detail your day in the third person, as if you were watching a film. That is, I write: "Dasha woke up at 5:30, did her morning chores, and at 6:45 started to wake up the child for school. Then they had breakfast together and left the house at 7:40. ... " You need to describe the whole day with minute details. And after writing it, read it in full. The thing is, this method is good for 2 reasons: Allows you to really you'll have available during the day and plan in detail the beginning and end of each task. estimate the time Has a . When you start your day tomorrow and it matches your plan from yesterday, you'll feel like you've already lived that day, which means you'll find it easier to navigate the huge to-do list. déjà vu effect Community Engagement Add yourself to themed forums, get a mentor, participate in meetups, and surround yourself with an environment of IT and like-minded people. I’d like to share with you some of them: be sure to follow webflow social media: , . twitter linkedin My list of educational channels on youtube: , , . finsweet fluxacademy t.ricks russian-speaking community in . telegram Develop Empathy Strangely enough, this is a skill you need to develop in yourself to succeed, and in IT too. Be able to put yourself in the shoes of the people you work with and for: the client - understand what is important to them, how they will manage your project after you and how to make it as easy and convenient as possible. colleagues - take into account all points of view and see the general vector of direction. users - how they will use your site on their device, whether it will be convenient, intuitive, and whether this or that movement on the page will cause discomfort. Keep improving Be prepared that this is an area of constant learning. There are both pros and cons to this. You will always be updating your knowledge and learning new things, it will become your way of life and spread to all its spheres. On the downside, it will never end. Just keep that in mind and spread your energies. It got to the point where when I was planning a holiday, I started evaluating each activity in the category of whether or not I would learn something new by doing it. If not, it became wasted time for me. The trap here is that even a much-needed holiday starts to feel like wasted time. Don't fall into it. Conclusion No-code development is no longer an unknown novelty. It is an established field that has changed the way people start a career in IT. Webflow, as a no-code platform, empowers people with superpowers to direct their attention towards creating unique and amazing projects. Through its courses, Webflow gives a quick entry into the IT market. It's a doorway and a start. And with the 5 habits listed above, you can strengthen your position. I urge you to put aside fear, believe in your strength, and take action. How many more hidden talents will the IT world recognize, what progress our generation will get, what a wonderful world we will live in, and what benefits we will enjoy when web development has become so accessible? Good luck and see you in a minute on the IT stage. Thanks for reading! Feel free to comment and ask the next questions: What habits mentioned in the article do you think would be most beneficial for someone just starting their journey in web development? Do you have any concerns or doubts about using a platform like Webflow for web development, and if so, what are they?

Lauch Your IT Journey with Webflow: Top 5 Habits for WebDev Newcomers 

The morning began as it always did. Blanket aside, sleepy gait, morning ritual, and the usual way to work. Even if the place of work is the desk in the next room. Every successful coach screams about fighting this system. But in fact, you don't need to fight it. It's enough to understand how it works and use it to your benefit. That's what neurohacking is all about. Dopamine mining in the 21st century: inflation Huxley's Brave New World is a super-concentrated utopia in which sources of quick gratification have possessed people. A button come off? Buy a new piece. Food, sex, entertainment - everything is calibrated and available. Even social elevators are predetermined from birth and literally written into your genocode. But let's move away from fiction and look at reality. In it, cyberpsychology and society are closely intertwined into a single structure that generates myths, supports them, and brings them to life. Dopamine swing The whole marketing industry is swinging a huge pendulum of neurohormones. At its highest point is dopamine. And at its lowest point, corticoliberin. It is the fear hormone, and slogans press it: "offer is limited", "the goods are running out", "discount for the first 10 buyers": The fear of being inferior to others hits our nerves because the loss of social status is comparable to death. If a major official/banker/top manager loses his position, the probability of his suicide increases many times over. It seems to us that work remains the only lifeline, without which we will be doomed to die in misery. Technological advances have spawned a synthesis of psychological mechanisms with advances in cybernetics. Today, cyberpsychology understands how to engage a person in absorbing material. How to create an interest that spurs one to watch a new series, go through another rink, or spend hours watching ten-second videos of cats and songs. Millions of years of starvation still outweigh 200 years of conventional satiety. Calories have become more dangerous than lead bullets. We're like primitive humans opening fire. Only we're not just warming ourselves by the fire. The problem is that the fire has become too much, and we are literally burning alive. Even though modern life is safe enough, the body refuses to accept it. Any lunge towards our safety or any threat to our social status is met with hostility. And the brain starts looking for solutions. Marketers present them on a silver platter. Speed is the main adversary We want to solve problems quickly. We also want achievements to stay with us for a long time. But what exactly they should look like, we have no idea. To be more precise, we stopped having about since childhood. Back then, we knew exactly the charm of the very stick, an unusual stone, or could wander for hours among a few trees while our brains drew incredible pictures of grandeur and adventure. But now we look up to seeming authorities who are slightly different from us. Authoritarians who broadcast the same things from every screen: Only true professionals use this smartphone. The super camera, the incredible processor, the screen with the number of colors your eye can't distinguish anyway. But this device becomes obsolete after a year, and you must make your next purchase to get back on track. Want to be fashionable? Here are the expensive brands. Here are ready-to-wear collections. Here are the dressed mannequins. Just take the same and enjoy! You don't need to tell everyone you are rich and fashion-savvy. Just wear the things we've already prepared for you. Have you heard of such a thing as constant self-development? We already spend a third of our lives sleeping! Don't waste time being bored. Boredom and procrastination are a virus worse than COVID-19. Here's a new series, a new movie, a new game. Give your brain a chance to solve interesting puzzles and sit down to work afterward. Develop your cultural experience. Play games, pumping up your game character. Just for your own sake, don't fall into laziness. Otherwise, unnecessary thoughts will start popping up in your head. Add to this shopping on the Internet, delivery services, social networking sites, and a man charged with caffeine who rushes through a maze of entertainment devices in pursuit of the horizon line that looms on every screen. And there is no way to get to it. Neurohacking of dopamine sources So, so far, the situation looks extremely unpleasant. There is a huge target on everyone's forehead, into which a beam of information stimuli is relentlessly beating. It is almost impossible to escape, but there is a way out. Neurohacking is not about taking grandmother's drugs to enhance brain activity. It is a way of life formed from understanding cognitive-behavioral principles and working not with the form of stimuli but with their essence. Power of habits "Step on the system". It applies to people with any type of addiction. Alcohol, drugs, and gambling become a natural ritual, like brushing your teeth or the route to work. To beat the system in the literal sense of the word is impossible. After all, fighting it will already be a reminder of its existence. Therefore, use switching: A notepad or text file in which you write down 3-5 events every day that brought you a moment of happiness. A beautiful sunset, a walk after the office, a dog you petted, a delicious lunch you made yourself. Allowing boredom. Boredom and procrastination are the same as a fever during a cold. It's only worth bringing it down when it's critical. Boredom indicates that you are doing something meaningless. And, quite possibly, there are more productive areas that need your attention. So it's worth giving them a little more attention. Cleansing. I think you know the feeling of not wanting to go to the shower. And then you don't want to get out of it. Same thing with dopamine. Walking on the landing with your smartphone turned off and not even music in your headphones... It seems like torture, but it will be extremely difficult to complete once you start the walk. For starters, you don't have to take it seriously. You're not struggling. You're not giving up habits. You are trying a new way of life. Everything is available to you, and nothing is beyond your control. This is the basis for the principles of Stoicism, which serves as a great balancing act when categorizing personal values. Shifting focus: what is stigmatized by marketers What's written above is a child's warm-up. You know, like morning exercise compared to professional sports. Only your main competition is all the mass marketing. Because to find happiness, you don't need marketing attributes. Comparing yourself with images on advertising posters is similar to biting your nails or lips. It is a kind of 21st-century self-harm. Cyberpsychology studies the tools used in the media by people and companies. These tools dictate the precepts of a successful, productive world. But their status quo can be disrupted by an alternate view conjured up in the mind: You don't need a new keyboard, a smartphone, or a branded notepad to be successful. You can afford all of those things. But it has no power over you. Buy things to get a dopamine boost. But remember that they are only things, and you can easily gift them to loved ones. Or part with them with no regrets. Happiness, like success, cannot be an attainable goal. Like, for example, a profession. It seems that here I will become a freelancer and will type on a chaise lounge on the island. But the screen glares, the charge is not enough, typing is uncomfortable, and it is generally hot. Happiness, success, and freelancing are states, but not an end in themselves. And it is almost impossible to acquire them. Your lifestyle will always seem miserable to some people. And someone will be shocked by its luxury. As Peter H. Diamandis wrote, there are 2 kinds of poverty. Absolute, when you have nothing to eat, and relative, when everyone else has the 12th iPhone, and you have only the 11th. You already have everything you need to experience pleasure and happiness. But it's like comparing a home chandelier to the 3D hologram from the Blade Runner remake... Advertising will always be brighter and more attractive. We will never own the products of the marketing world but only rent them, committing to changing sets of clothes, appliances, and even our personal data. They are left on a hundred websites and no longer belong to us but to supposedly secure databases. Is dopamine gluttony so bad? It may seem like a fierce criticism of modern society and consumer culture. But I'm not. It's more of an illumination of the situation as a whole. Marketing does put pressure on the mind, but companies can't do otherwise. But we can. There is already a culture of alcohol consumption in society. So why stop at just that? A culture of consuming gaming content, media content, marketing content... The excess of stimuli pushing on the dopamine receptors can really be bypassed. It's enough to choose your own goals, instead of being guided by marketing tricks. And yes, you just took a ride on the dopamine-corticoliberine swing.

Dopamine Pumps: Neurohacking Habits

ডোপামিন পাম্প: নিউরোহ্যাকিং অভ্যাস

Dopamin-Pumpen: Neurohacking-Gewohnheiten

Bombas de dopamina: hábitos de neurohacking

Pompes à dopamine : habitudes de neurohacking

डोपामाइन पंप्स: न्यूरोहैकिंग आदतें

ドーパミンポンプ: ニューロハッキングの習慣

도파민 펌프: 신경해킹 습관

Дофаминовые помпы: привычки нейрохакинга

Dopamin Pompaları: Nörohacking Alışkanlıkları

Bơm Dopamine: Thói quen tấn công thần kinh

多巴胺泵：神经黑客习惯

Hi, colleagues! As we approach the end of 2023, LeetCode is honoring active participants with badges. I have consistently tackled problems for over 300 days, earning myself this badge. An important note to emphasize is that this article is not about boasting about my achievement; rather, it focuses on cultivating a habit of daily practice, be it solving problems or revisiting those we tend to forget. Personally, concepts like dynamic programming and sliding windows took a while to sink in, and problems involving diagrams left me baffled. Immersing myself in a continuous cycle of tackling challenges has proven effective in keeping my mind sharp. In this article, I want to share an excellent life hack on how to always stay afloat in the IT market and keep yourself in shape by spending just 10-30 minutes a day in the morning. To start, simply allocate 10 minutes or more before work. I began my workday with a straightforward task. Instead of having coffee and reading articles, I started by reading problems. Later, I shifted this activity after stretching and before breakfast – a brief period to wake up, gather myself, and engage my brain. As a result, coffee became unnecessary😌 In This Brief Article, We Will Explore: Two valuable resources, one of which you are already familiar with – LeetCode, and the other where you can find an excellent free roadmap for studying patterns, along with problem breakdowns on YouTube. Strategies for finding time and determining the optimal time investment. The ultimate process we will achieve in the end. For me, solving algorithmic problems has always seemed like something akin to an Olympiad, and I long failed to grasp its value. Many argue that it is necessary solely for passing interviews, and that knowledge of how to invert trees or traverse them in depth will never be useful in real life. Partially, this is true, but when we start looking not only at high-level API libraries but delve into the logic, we begin to be amazed. Working with time, we can merge intervals; dealing with dictionary search, we can work with prefixes; working with a hash map, we can apply hashing algorithms. This is just the tip of the iceberg. As soon as we start writing a lot of our own code, not limiting ourselves to using frameworks, we encounter the need to optimize code, check its complexity, and make it more efficient. https://leetcode.com/problemset/?embedable=true LeetCode is an excellent way to start tackling easy problems to understand what complexity is and how much it affects the result. Starting with simple problems, we devise solutions, becoming more and more efficient, and ultimately, identifying patterns. It is precisely these patterns that allow us to determine how to solve a problem and what its complexity is. In most cases, we can solve it in several ways. What does this give us? In short, at work on your project, you will learn to instantly assess the efficiency of your code, especially if your project is constantly under heavy load. If your code transitions from cubic complexity to linear complexity, your servers and administrators will thank you. It also saves the company significant funds, especially when using services like Amazon. It may seem trivial, but such optimizations can save several thousand dollars! My Way! So, where to start? You have LeetCode, and you have problems, but what to do next? 1. Start With Easy Problems. It is recommended to begin by solving several " " level problems. Don't rush into the difficult ones right away. Take a sheet of paper and a pen, and start analyzing the problem verbally, without writing code. easy 2. Work Through the Solution. After you have a general understanding of the problem and have considered edge cases, start writing code. 3. Turn It Into a Habit. Solve a couple of problems per week, but don't rush. Gradually, you will develop an understanding of patterns and approaches to solving problems. 4. Pay Attention to Patterns. At some point, you will notice that your solutions repeat. This is where the time for patterns begins. If possible, consider a premium course on algorithms and data structures on LeetCode. There, you will find analyses of problems, video tutorials, and detailed solutions. If you want to save money, turn to the resource neetcode, where free problem breakdowns are available. https://neetcode.io/?embedable=true Neetcode has effectively organized everything into a tree structure based on topics, as well as tasks that are commonly asked. Certainly, on LeetCode, the precision is much higher, as users can mark which problems were actually asked and frequently update the problem list. However, I highly recommend exploring this resource and channel, even if you have been solving problems for a long time. You can choose topics and tasks: 5. Create a Systematic Approach. Take a plan: Open Neetcodee, and choose problems from the tree. Open the corresponding problem on LeetCode. Try to solve it. If you have solved it or couldn't, look at the solution, and write it down in a notepad. Transfer the solution from the notepad to the code and submit. And remember, failures in the beginning are normal. The key to this process is to learn and memorize patterns. As soon as you recognize a familiar pattern, solving problems will become much easier. Whether tackling easy or medium-level problems, it doesn't matter — just solve them! If memorizing problems is what it takes, go for it! There's no need to compare yourself to others, as we're in the process of cultivating a new and excellent habit. This habit will undoubtedly lead to significant improvement in the long run! Good luck with your learning! If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, feel free to ask. Cheers! 🚀

Why Making LeetCode a Daily Habit Is the Key to Skill Development and Career Growth

In the digital age, the evolution of reading habits is undergoing a profound transformation, propelled by the inexorable integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into our literary landscape. As we delve into the realms of "Revolutionizing Reading," a seismic shift is discernible, with AI technologies reshaping the very fabric of how readers engage with content. Surpassing mere convenience, AI's impact is quantifiable—recent statistics reveal a staggering in personalized reading recommendations, fostering a dynamic synergy between algorithms and readers' preferences. 30% increase In this era of technological convergence, we embark on an exploration of how AI is not just influencing but fundamentally revolutionizing reader habits. Definition of AI in Reading: Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reading refers to the innovative integration of machine learning algorithms and computational capabilities in the realm of literature consumption. This sophisticated application of technology goes beyond mere digitization, leveraging data-driven insights to enhance and personalize the reading experience. Overview of Transformative Impact The transformative impact of AI on reader habits is nothing short of revolutionary. Beyond traditional paradigms, AI is reshaping the way we discover, consume, and comprehend literature. From personalized recommendations that align with individual preferences to adaptive learning platforms tailored to unique reading styles, . the landscape of reading is undergoing a metamorphosis In this exploration, we delve into the multifaceted ways AI is driving this transformative impact and reshaping the very fabric of our reading habits. Let’s dig into the deep Personalized Recommendations AI Algorithms in Reading Platforms AI-powered algorithms are at the forefront of delivering tailored reading recommendations. These algorithms analyze user preferences, reading history, and even contextual factors to that align with individual tastes. suggest books Statistics on Increased Personalization The impact is tangible—statistics reveal a significant increase in user engagement and satisfaction with personalized recommendations. Readers are discovering new genres and authors that resonate with their unique interests, fostering a more dynamic reading experience. User Experience Enhancement Beyond recommendations, AI contributes to an enriched user experience by adapting to evolving preferences in real time. Smart algorithms continuously learn from user interactions, ensuring that the content suggested remains relevant and engaging. Adaptive Learning Platforms AI-Driven Learning Strategies AI extends its influence beyond reading preferences into learning strategies. Adaptive learning platforms utilize AI to understand individual learning styles, allowing for the creation of customized strategies that enhance comprehension and retention. Customized Learning Paths Readers embark on personalized learning journeys as AI tailors content delivery and difficulty levels based on individual progress. This adaptive approach ensures that each reader receives a customized educational experience. Real-World Examples and Success Stories Real-world examples showcase the success of platforms, with improved educational outcomes and a deeper understanding of complex subjects. The synergy between AI and personalized learning is transforming the educational landscape. AI-driven adaptive learning AI in Content Creation Automated Content Generation AI's foray into content creation introduces automated generation tools, assisting authors in crafting engaging narratives. This collaboration between AI and human authors accelerates the writing process while maintaining the essence of creativity. Collaboration Between AI and Human Authors The collaboration between AI and human authors raises intriguing possibilities for literary diversity. AI can augment human creativity, offering fresh perspectives and contributing to a more inclusive literary landscape. Implications for Diversity in Literary Creations As AI becomes a creative collaborator, the implications for diversity in literary creations are substantial. The fusion of human ingenuity and AI capabilities can lead to a broader spectrum of stories that reflect the richness of diverse experiences. Reading Analytics Tracking and Analyzing Reader Behavior AI-driven reading analytics provide valuable insights into reader behavior, helping publishers and authors understand audience preferences, popular themes, and engagement patterns. Insights for Publishers and Authors Publishers and authors leverage these insights to refine marketing strategies, optimize content offerings, and tailor promotional campaigns, ultimately fostering stronger connections with their readership. Balancing Privacy Concerns However, the increased reliance on reading analytics raises privacy concerns. Striking a balance between gathering valuable data and respecting readers' privacy is crucial for maintaining trust in the evolving landscape. Accessibility and Inclusivity AI's Role in Making Reading Accessible AI plays a pivotal role in making reading accessible to a broader audience. Text-to-speech technologies and other adaptive tools enhance accessibility for individuals with visual or cognitive impairments. Breaking Language Barriers Language is no longer a barrier, thanks to AI-powered translation tools that enable readers to explore content in their preferred language. This breakthrough promotes cultural exchange and global literary exploration. Addressing Challenges in Inclusivity Despite these advancements, challenges in inclusivity persist, requiring continuous efforts to address biases in and ensure equitable access for all readers. AI algorithms Challenges and Ethical Considerations Bias in AI Algorithms One of the critical challenges is the inherent bias present in AI algorithms. Addressing this bias is paramount to prevent perpetuating stereotypes and ensuring fair representation in content recommendations. Privacy Concerns and Data Security As AI collects and processes vast amounts of user data, safeguarding privacy and ensuring robust data security measures are imperative to prevent unauthorized access and potential misuse. Striking a Balance Between Automation and Human Touch Finding the right balance between automation and preserving the human touch in reading experiences is an ongoing challenge. While AI enhances efficiency, maintaining the emotional and empathetic aspects of storytelling requires careful consideration. Future Trends Emerging AI Technologies in Reading The future holds promising developments, with emerging AI technologies poised to revolutionize reading further. Natural language processing, augmented reality, and immersive storytelling experiences are on the horizon. Predictions for the Future of Reader-Technology Interaction Predictions indicate a deeper integration of AI into daily reading habits, with technologies evolving to anticipate user needs, provide real-time insights, and offer an even more personalized and immersive experience. Potential Societal Impacts The societal impacts of AI in reading extend beyond individual preferences. A more educated and culturally aware society may emerge as AI contributes to accessible and diverse literary experiences. Conclusion In conclusion, AI is undeniably transforming reader habits by offering personalized recommendations, adaptive learning experiences, and innovative content-creation tools. The landscape of reading is evolving, driven by the dynamic interplay between AI and human creativity. Readers find themselves in a realm of limitless possibilities, exploring new genres, languages, and perspectives. As we navigate this transformative journey, a collective effort is needed. Readers, publishers, and tech innovators must collaborate to address challenges, uphold ethical standards, and embrace the potential of AI to enrich the world of reading for generations to come.

Revolutionizing Reading: The Transformative Impact of AI on Reader Habits

They push their agenda, do not stick to their own ideas, and refuse to listen to their teams’ feedback. Who am I talking about? Toxic managers and leaders. No doubt you have met at least one in your life. A few obvious signs of a toxic manager include nepotism, micromanagement, or disrespect of other people’s boundaries. There are also more obscure ones that may creep up on any team. What do professionals need to look out for? Toxic managers do not communicate with their teams directly I often talk about the importance of delegating. This is the form of business art that took me years to master, but when I did, it changed the name of the game. I was able to focus on strategically essential tasks and grow my business into the international group of companies it is today. But some managers take this to the next level. They delegate tasks to their successor, who then communicates with the rest of the team. This way, a manager becomes a mythical creature that may or may not exist. This creates a huge barrier between a leader and their team. Team members do not get an opportunity to ask questions about their career advancement, everyday processes, or relationships with their teammates. Getting through to a manager who chose this approach to communication is extremely difficult and can create many roadblocks, especially for new team members. Toxic managers lack confidence in their decisions While there is nothing inherently wrong with a person not being confident in themselves, leaders can’t afford it. They need to be sure about their decisions because people depend on them. Managers who lack confidence often change their decisions on the go and fail to stick to one idea at a time. They doubt themselves and others. As a result, almost nothing around them gets done. Even worse, managers who are not confident in themselves are almost sure not to be confident in their team members. This can result in constant micromanagement and lack of trust, which can lead to high team churn and low morale. Toxic managers promote hierarchy In the modern business world, relationships between teammates and managers are built on mutual respect and trust. Titles are often set aside, which makes communication more effective and pleasurable for both sides. A manager who frequently pulls rank and promotes strict hierarchy within their team is not doing anyone favors. Whatever conflicts there might be between them and their team, they only deepen it, making the situation worse. Constantly reminding team members who a manager is can also harm their creative and problem-solving processes. In short, such a team runs out of steam and stops working properly. Toxic managers  refuse to connect with their teams on a personal level Today is all about personal connections. Regular syncs, out-of-office team building gatherings, book and movie clubs — this is how we at SupportYourApp promote personal communication and connection. As a result, team members know each other on a personal level, which ultimately adds up to more efficient teamwork. Some managers refuse to connect with their team. They are all about business and work-related agendas. They can go as far as to skip the small talk and always go straight to work. Not even a ‘How are you doing?’ at the beginning of a meeting. That can be perceived as simply rude. When a leader refuses to connect with their team, it also sets a bad precedent. Team members start doing the same. As a result, they fail to form a connection vital for effective teamwork. In the long run, this hardly results in lasting team relationships. Can something be done? One of the most widespread thoughts is that a team cannot do anything if its leader turns toxic. Most think they need to go to their manager’s manager to resolve the situation. In reality, there are a few steps a team can take to get through to their manager. Provide feedback whenever possible. At SupportYourApp, feedback is an integral part of our communication. I give it to the members of my team, and they give theirs to their teams. Our support consultants can also review their Team Leads' actions and work, which ensures we eliminate all behavioral bottlenecks as soon as they arise. Take care of themselves. Professionals need to watch out for their mental state and make sure they do not burn out because of inefficient management. Talk-talk-talk. As tough as it may be, talking and communicating is the key to everything. Talking and making a difference is worth trying. If that doesn’t work, turning to some external help might be the best option for dealing with a toxic leader.

4 Habits of a Toxic Manager That Shatter Productivity and Teamwork

একজন বিষাক্ত ম্যানেজারের 4টি অভ্যাস যা উত্পাদনশীলতা এবং টিমওয়ার্ককে ভেঙে দেয়

4 Gewohnheiten eines toxischen Managers, die Produktivität und Teamarbeit zerstören

4 hábitos de un gerente tóxico que destruyen la productividad y el trabajo en equipo

4 habitudes d'un manager toxique qui brisent la productivité et le travail d'équipe

एक जहरीले प्रबंधक की 4 आदतें जो उत्पादकता और टीम वर्क को नष्ट कर देती हैं

生産性とチームワークを台無しにする有害なマネージャーの 4 つの習慣

생산성과 팀워크를 파괴하는 해로운 관리자의 4가지 습관

4 hábitos de um gerente tóxico que prejudicam a produtividade e o trabalho em equipe

4 привычки токсичного менеджера, которые подрывают продуктивность и командную работу

Zehirli Bir Yöneticinin Üretkenliği ve Ekip Çalışmasını Bozan 4 Alışkanlığı

4 thói quen của người quản lý độc hại làm suy giảm năng suất và tinh thần đồng đội

有毒管理者破坏生产力和团队合作的 4 个习惯

I am not in the habit of seeing the Household Words regularly; but a friend

ON HABITS OF SYSTEM AND ORDER.

In today's digital world, successful products are the ones that integrate into user’s daily routines. That’s why product managers need to understand the psychology behind . habit-forming products At the core of this psychology is the concept of habit loops. When you understand and leverage them effectively, these loops become the key to ensuring that users return to use the product repeatedly. But why are habit loops so powerful? And how can they be harnessed to boost user retention? In this article, we will dive into: What are habit loops? Why should habit loops concern you? How do habit loops increase user retention? Case study — Flo app Practical steps to create habit-forming products The Dark side of habit-forming products What are Habit loops? "The Habit Loop is a neurological loop that governs any habit. The habit loop consists of three elements: a cue, a routine, and a reward. Understanding these elements can help in understanding how to change bad habits or form better ones." - Duhigg, C. Elements of the habit loop The Cue The cue for a habit can be anything that triggers the habit. Cues most generally fall under the following categories: a location, a time of day, other people, an emotional state, or an immediately foregoing action. The Routine A habit's routine is the most obvious element: the behaviour you wish to change (e.g. smoking or biting your nails) or reinforce (e.g. taking the stairs instead of the elevator, drinking water instead of snacking, meditating when feeling anxious). The Reward The reward is why the brain decides the previous steps are worth remembering for the future. The reward provides positive reinforcement for the desired behaviour, making users more likely to engage with that behaviour again. The reward can be anything, from something tangible to something intangible to something with no inherent value but what it is given. Why should you care about habit loops? The most influential digital products on the market are habit-forming. They create engagement loops that bring users back repeatedly, not out of necessity but out of habit. Product managers can use the principles of the Habit Loop to build products that meet users’ needs and form part of their daily routines. Why understanding and employing habit loops is beneficial? The more user interacts with a product, the more value they get from it, resulting in a deeper product-user relationship. Increased Engagement: Habitual users are more likely to make in-app purchases, upgrade to premium versions, and are less sensitive to price changes. Monetization Opportunities: Users who find products valuable are more likely to recommend them to others. Organic Growth: Products that integrate well into users' daily routines are less sensitive to competition. Competitive Advantage: Regular user engagement provides a continuous stream of data. This data gives insights into user behaviour, preferences, and pain points. Data Collection: Understanding habit loops allows product managers to foresee user behaviour more accurately, aiding in long-term planning and strategy formulation. Predictable User Behavior: Habit loops and understanding habit-forming mechanisms allow product managers to create products that meet users' needs and become essential to their daily lives. This integration leads to long-term product success, sustainability, and growth. Habit Loops and User Retention User retention and user acquisition - one cannot exist without another. Both are crucial for a product's growth; no company can live without a user base. Yet user retention requires engagement and building a relationship. This makes them feel you care and motivates them to continue using your products. Other compelling reasons to consider user retention: Acquiring a new user is often more expensive than retaining an existing one. Marketing campaigns, advertisements, and other acquisition strategies quickly consume a company's budget. Cost-Effectiveness: Retained users generally have a higher lifetime value. They're more likely to make repeat purchases and upgrade, leading to increased revenue over time. Lifetime Value: Satisfied, retained users become advocates for your product. They're likelier to suggest it to friends and colleagues. That provides organic growth. Product Evangelism: Retained users give helpful feedback. Their continued engagement means they're invested in the product's success and can provide wisdom into potential improvements or new features. Feedback Loop: Now, how do habit loops play into this? As noted in " " Habit loops are cyclical processes that drive user behaviour. The four components— and I —work in tandem to create habitual product use. Nir Eyal's Hooked: Hooked: Habit-Forming Products, Trigger, Action, Variable Reward, nvestment When users consistently go through this loop, they form habits around a product. This habitual use makes them less likely to churn, directly boosting retention. The more often a user goes through the habit loop, the deeper the product implants into their daily routine. Over time, this repeated engagement firms their relationship with the product, making them less sensitive to competitors and more likely to stick around. Habit loops are the machine behind high user retention rates. They assure that users don't just sign up and engage once but return repeatedly, deriving value each time. As product managers, comprehending and leveraging these loops can convert casual users into loyal product advocates. Case Study: Successful Application of Habit Loop in Digital Products — Flo app The Flo app is a menstrual cycle tracking and fertility app that helps women understand their bodies better. Let's analyze it using Nir Eyal's "Hooked" model: Trigger These could be notifications to log symptoms, emails with insights about their cycle, or articles about women's body. For new users, seeing friends use the app or reading about it in media can also serve as triggers. External Triggers: As women get accustomed to using Flo, they might start logging symptoms or checking predictions instinctively when they feel specific physical or emotional changes. The wish to understand or predict one's cycle can also be an internal trigger. Internal Triggers: Action The primary action in the Flo app is logging daily symptoms, moods, and activities. Other actions might include reading articles, interacting with the community, or checking predictions about the menstrual cycle. The simplicity of logging and the immediate feedback (predictions or insights) make the action phase compelling. Variable Reward: These are insights and predictions about their menstrual cycle. One month, a user might discover a pattern in her mood swings, while another month, she might get clarity on her most fertile days or even get notified of specific abnormalities in the cycle. Flo also offers articles and tips, which can vary in relevance and interest for the user. Unpredictable content drives users to engage more frequently, as new information is always a surprise. Investment: Users invest in Flo by consistently logging their data. The more data they log, the more accurate and personalized the predictions and insights become. Engaging with the community and  bookmarking articles increases investment in the app. Users who see the value of their accumulated data and insights are more likely to return to the app and even recommend it to others. The Flo app effectively leverages the Hooked model. It provides timely external triggers, enables easy and meaningful actions, delivers variable rewards in insights and content, and encourages user investment through consistent logging and engagement. This combination can make the app a habit-forming tool for many users, helping them better understand and navigate their menstrual cycles. How do you get started creating habit-forming products? As a product manager, how can you begin working towards habit-forming products? A helpful tool is , discussed in the book “ ? by Nir Eyal. Habit testing Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products Habit Testing: A Guide for Product Managers Habit Testing is a systematic approach to optimize products for habitual use. Embedded in behavioural psychology and the principles of the Lean Startup Movement, it offers a structured way to ensure products attract users and embed themselves into their daily routines. 1. Identify Habitual Users First step: pinpoint who from your user base are the Habitual Users. These users frequently engage with your product and get significant value from it. As a general guideline, it's a good sign if at least 5% of your users can be categorised as Habitual Users. If less than 5% of your users fall into this category, your product needs reevaluation or refinement (Nir Eyal, Hook: How to Build Habit-Forming Products). How? Use analytics tools to track user engagement metrics. Check for patterns: daily or weekly active users, session lengths, and feature usage. Conduct surveys or interviews to understand the motivations and behaviours of these users. Example For a fitness app, Habitual Users might log their workouts or meals daily, engage with community features, and have streaks of daily check-ins. 2. Codify the Habit Path Once you've identified Habitual Users, the next step is to define the Habit Path. This is a series of actions or behaviours that these users frequently take. How? Analyze the shared actions of your most loyal users to determine the Habit Path. For instance, Twitter's analysis revealed that once new users followed at least 30 other people, they reached a point that greatly increased the likelihood of continued engagement. Every product will have a unique set of actions dedicated users frequently take. The primary objective is determining which actions are pivotal for cultivating loyal users. You should aim to create a product experience tailored to promote such behaviours. Example Let's discuss the case of the Flo app. Typically, app users will first check how many days are left until their next cycle. After that, they will look into their personalized health insights before moving on to the secret chats section. 3. Iterate and Test Now, you’ve gained great insights from the previous steps; in the next phase, you must refine the product to make it more conducive to habit formation. How? Developing a prototype based on the Habit Testing insights is just the beginning. It's crucial to introduce the product to the market and iterate upon it continuously. This iterative process is essential to transform the product into a truly habit-forming entity. Example If a reading app finds that users who engage with daily reading challenges become Habitual Users, they might test different challenges or offer personalized challenges or recommendations. Additional Considerations Encourage Habitual Users to provide feedback. Their insights are invaluable in refining the Habit Path for other users. Feedback Loop: Use notifications, emails, or other external triggers to drive users back to your product, reinforcing the Habit Path. External Triggers: Present variable rewards for users as they complete actions on the Habit Path. Reward Systems: Often, Habitual Users are also active community members. Encourage community interactions, as they can reinforce habitual behaviours. Community Engagement: The dark side of habit-forming products Some products encourage positive habits: reading, meditating, helping to increase your productivity, and exercising. Yet, it's essential to recognize the potential pitfalls. When products inadvertently lead to addiction, users might spend excessive hours engaged. Consider the social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. For some, they grow into an overpowering compulsion, making disconnecting problematic. As you build and design intentionally, remember the fragile line between encouraging positive habits and inadvertently promoting harmful ones. Always prioritize user well-being and positive impact.

The Power of Habit: How Understanding Habits Loops Can Improve User Retention

What makes some teams do exceptionally well and others perform poorly? Do they have more talented team members and better resources, or are they simply lucky? Teams that stand out are not more talented, better skilled, or have greater opportunities. What sets them apart are their habits and practices. Empowering work culture, support from leaders in the organization, and clarity of vision and goals are important, but they’re not sufficient to drive excellence and high performance in teams. Building extraordinary workplaces with high-performing teams requires more than hiring the right talent and equipping them with the right opportunities. It requires cultivating the right habits and incorporating them into daily work and life. Here are the five habits of high-performing . teams They use premortem techniques to make better decisions Making good decisions is hard. Choices that look good at the moment often fail in the future. In hindsight, though, the failure seems evident and clear. High-performing teams don’t make perfect decisions or not never fail. What makes them stand out is the practice they adopt to combat cognitive biases and reduce project risk at the outset. They use the premortem approach to evaluate possibilities, understand consequences, anticipate failures, and then find ways to avoid them. Developed by Gary Klein, premortem is a highly effective technique to evaluate risks and proactively identify potential problems and obstacles that might get in the way of success. This is the way it works: Place yourself into the future and look back. Visualize the project, task, or whatever you intend to do has gone horribly wrong. Work backward to identify what mistakes might cause it to fail. Create a plan to solve these issues—address the risks and obstacles, thereby increasing your chances of success. The best way to recover from a false start is to avoid one in the first place. And the best technique for doing that is something called a "premortem". — Daniel Pink Teams that perform well don’t always make the best choices. They just avoid obvious and bad mistakes. Instead of agreeing to disagree, they disagree and commit What separates a healthy team from an unhealthy one is the willingness to openly disagree and yet remain committed to supporting each other. When team members agree to disagree, they adopt a negative mindset. Instead of accepting that it’s not about right vs. wrong, us vs. them, agreeing to disagree makes them adopt dismissive behavior and ignore the decision. They become non-committal, which refrains them from providing the necessary support to others. The “ ” mindset sabotages the purpose of a group to come together and challenge each other while remaining committed to supporting each other. Agree to disagree Disagree and commit, on the other hand, divulges the importance of commitment despite their differences. At its core, it supports unity and maturity to disconnect their identity from their ideas and support others even when they do not agree with their point of view. It doesn’t hide the fact that they disagree nor dismiss the value of their opinion; it simply guides them to know when it’s time to get past their conviction and work with others instead of working against them. Instead of turning differences of opinion into a personal agenda where one side must lose for the other to win, high-performing team members look beyond their own perspective and treat other people’s ideas as worthy of consideration. When a decision doesn’t turn out the way they anticipated, instead of agreeing to disagree, they disagree and commit. Each of us tends to think we see things as they are, that we are objective. But this is not the case. We see the world, not as it is, but as we are—or, as we are conditioned to see it. When we open our mouths to describe what we see, we in effect describe ourselves, our perceptions, our paradigms. When other people disagree with us, we immediately think something is wrong with them. But, as the demonstration shows, sincere, clear headed people see things differently, each looking through the unique lens of experience — Stephen R. Covey To disagree and commit, high-performing team members do this: Separate their identity from their idea. Share their intent. Inquire into the conflict. Evaluate and understand different perspectives. State they disagree yet commit to supporting the decision. Teams that perform well commit wholeheartedly and support conflicting opinions. They practice radical candor to give and get feedback People who don’t get feedback share a common problem—they dump the complete responsibility of giving the right feedback on the feedback giver. Thinking that others are vague, dishonest, or unwilling to share feedback makes them ignore the role they play in the equation as the person on the receiving end of the feedback. Without proper feedback, there’s no way for them to know what they’re doing wrong and what changes will help them learn, improve, and get better. Not experiencing the benefits of timely feedback also prevents them from sharing valuable feedback with others. create an environment that’s conducive to feedback. They not only constantly pull feedback and advice from others, they don’t hesitate to push feedback to others. Sharing feedback with others helps them grow, while seeking the same feedback from others creates a self-perpetuating cycle of learning and growth. High-performing teams Creating pull is about mastering the skills required to drive our own learning; it’s about how to recognize and manage our resistance, how to engage in feedback conversations with confidence and curiosity, and even when the feedback seems wrong, how to find insight that might help us grow. It’s also about how to stand up for who we are and how we see the world, and ask for what we need. It’s about how to learn from feedback—yes, even when it is off base, unfair, poorly delivered, and frankly, you’re not in the mood — Douglas Stone They do this by asking these two questions to themselves and others: How can we work better? How can we improve together? High-performing team members take full responsibility for giving and getting feedback with the belief that they have the power to drive their own growth at work as opposed to blaming someone else for not moving forward. They use a high agency to navigate unknowns and challenges High agency is about finding a way to get what you want without waiting for the conditions to be perfect or otherwise blaming the circumstances. High-agency people either push through in the face of adversity or they manage to reverse it to achieve their goals. They either find a way or they make a way. High Agency is the ability to navigate unknowns and challenging circumstances to carve your own path to success without waiting for the conditions to be perfect. It’s a sense of control over your own behaviors, decisions, and actions in shaping up your life as opposed to relying on external circumstances, conditions, and environment to decide what you can and cannot do. Instead of considering other people’s limits as their own limits and fitting inside a box based on what others deem possible, high-agency people expand their boundaries of influence, push themselves to navigate uncharted territory, and do the work that’s necessary to succeed. Many things can go wrong at work—conflicting priorities, unknown problems, the uncertainty of decisions, misalignment of expectations, communication gaps, unrealistic deadlines, and so on. Adopting a victim mentality in such cases prevents people from thinking clearly, finding solutions, and moving forward. Assuming others are the source of their problem prevents them from taking responsibility and feeling in control of their outcomes. High-performing team members don’t engage in such behavior. They take responsibility not only for their experience but also for their outcomes. They don’t have special talents or knowledge. What differentiates them is their ability to turn adversity into opportunity. What makes them push ahead when many others pull back is their relentless drive to look for solutions instead of complaining about the problems. When they fail or make mistakes, they feel disappointed, much like everyone else, but they don’t let that disappointment get in the way of taking action or making progress. In Jim Dethmer calls this “taking radical responsibility.” He writes, “When we place blame, we locate the cause and control of our lives outside ourselves. When we take responsibility, we locate the cause and control of our lives inside ourselves.” The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership, They make learning a priority. Work environments constantly , new responsibilities, and new ways of doing things. demand new skills Sitting inside the comfort zone and doing things that come easy or appear less challenging definitely feels safe. But it also limits growth opportunities. Without experiencing the discomfort that comes with embracing unknowns, without knowing how to navigate complexity, and without building the resilience to deal with uncertainty, career growth is impossible to achieve. High-performing teams understand this very well. They challenge themselves to seek new opportunities, solve problems they’ve never solved before, and do work that requires them to expand their skills. Making learning a priority not only helps them turn obstacles into opportunities but also leads to less stress and anxiety. Just as athletes never quit training, high performers never stop consciously conditioning and strengthening their habits. Real success—holistic, long-term success—doesn’t come from doing what’s natural, certain, convenient, or automatic. Often, the journey to greatness begins the moment our preferences for comfort and certainty are overruled by a greater purpose that requires challenge and contribution. The skills and strengths you have now are probably insufficient to get you to the next level of success, so it’s absurd to think you won’t have to work on your weaknesses, develop new strengths, try new habits, stretch beyond what you think your limits or gifts are. — Brendon Burchard Summary High-performing teams proactively identify potential problems, evaluate risks, and find ways to overcome obstacles that might get in the way of success. They do this by using the premortem technique. They are open to sharing their disagreements, but once a decision has been taken, they show their full support and commitment. To perform at their highest levels, high-performing team members leverage the power of feedback. They use every opportunity to give and get feedback. Instead of blaming others, high-performance teams take complete responsibility for their experience and outcomes. High agency gives them a sense of control to move forward instead of feeling stuck. They consciously step out of their comfort zone by embracing new opportunities and taking risks. Making learning a priority prepares them to better deal with the challenges and demands of work life. Also published . here

5 Habits of High Performing Teams That You Should Consider 

I think about how not to become a bitter old woman a lot. Probably too much for a 29-year-old. I’ve spent enough time around miserable people to realize that it’s not how I want to turn out when I get older. So I was curious to understand what exactly makes some of them so unbearable to be with. Some patterns emerged. Successful vs unsuccessful people When I think of someone as successful in this context, I think of someone with a sharp mind and unburdened heart. Someone pleasant to be around. Think about some people you know; I’m sure someone who’s unhappy and unpleasant will pop up. such as complaining, bitterness, regret, and lack of curiosity create the effect (I made this up but you know what I mean 😁). It’s hard to tolerate such a person in high doses. My typical response is to reduce the contact to a minimum and most likely daydream (as a self-protection mechanism) while they’re dishing out 💩. Habits unbearability The internet is full of lessons from successful people, but I'm also interested in observing unsuccessful people. How not to be? What not to do? How did they get there? Negative mental habits I’ve noticed that by the time someone is in their fifties, the negative consequences of certain mental habits have settled in. The unsuccessful people are bitter, have a negative view of the world, and are easily irritated/angry or resigned altogether. Lack of curiosity If you're not interested in the world and other people, you're not interesting. You've got nothing to say except re-tell stories from the past. This type of person also adopts black-and-white thinking and tends to fear change. When you don't know why/what is changing, any change is perceived as threatening so you get locked up in your beliefs even further. Also, you become fearful of the outside world. Someone I know once told me to be careful at the park because they heard that "gay men go there to have intercourse and beat up women when they see them". 🤷‍♀️ I’ve been to that park 10s of times, both late at night and early morning and saw no such thing. The comment was beyond ridiculous. But it came from a person who only leaves their house for a doctor's appointment and is glued to the news. So the thing you're left talking about is how bad life/other people are which then leads to: Complaining (about everything and everyone) Have you noticed how many older people relate through complaining? It's like they're in a competition to out-complain one another. Who's hurting more, what’s gone wrong for them, how bad they have it. If they’re at a loss they’ll bring up someone they know something bad happened to. At that point, I just want to get up and shout: YOU ALL WIN! 😂 By the way, this habit starts early on: most adults use complaining to bond. They complain about the weather, the government, gas prices, other people, their spouses, friends, traffic jams, their boss, their financial situation etc. It seems "normal" because everyone complains, but it isn't. Guess what? You're a mass of molecules who is going to stay here for 80 or so years, you're on a rock that's spinning around the sun, among other planetary systems in a galaxy among billions (?) of other galaxies, the life was here before you and it will be here after you're gone - who do you think you are for life to go exactly as you want?! Another negative mental habit related to complaining is: Keeping resentment and hurt I get that generation before us didn't have access to mental health and talked about psychology/spirituality as much as we do and yet. The person who allowed resentment to build up over time is, to say the least, unpleasant to be around. Their pain is clouding their perception, and they have strong opinions about the world, others, and themselves. Re-telling the same stories about how your parents did something when you were a child or how your ex-husband hurt you, so now 40 years later you do this thing you don't like to be doing but explain your behavior by what someone did to you in the past... is not taking responsibility. How helpful is it to think that someone else is responsible for your circumstances even if it’s true? Where exactly does it get you to blame someone else? Is your life getting better? Or is that a story of your mind you got caught up in for so long that you now take it to be the truth? If by now you still haven't taken responsibility for your life, you are going to spend the remaining years suffering. These habits start early My biggest fear is allowing the habit of complaining to grow and become an older person-complainer who is always angry, annoyed, and irritated with everything and everyone. It’s a default state of our mind to look for negative stuff. It’s also easier to blame someone else/circumstances than push through the mind’s BS. But the long-term consequences are just not worth it. I do know quite a few examples of older yet successful people. The common characteristics are: curiosity physical activity self-awareness radical responsibility reflection on their past experiences interest in personal development/spirituality I also would like to add that this isn’t necessarily age-specific, I know a person my age who’s been miserable for as long as I can remember. It’s just that as we age, these habits accumulate and literally become who we are. Final words I believe that by the time we get older, we are a reflection of both the good and bad habits we create throughout our lives. Intentionally cultivating positive habits, and engaging in self-reflection and personal growth is half the battle. Also published . here

Overcoming Mental Habits that Stifle Aliveness

- Jim Ryun "Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going" When it comes to coping with the intricate labyrinth of the mind, mental health often seems like a cryptic crossword puzzle. But what if I told you there's a straightforward way to solve this puzzle, one piece at a time? Welcome aboard Set your sails for an adventure guided by proven science, breezed by motivation, and steered by one of the simplest, most intuitive apps you'll ever get your hands on: . The Uncharted Journey of Habit Building for Enhanced Mental Health. Dandelion The Importance of Hinges - Archimedes "Give me a lever long enough and a fulcrum on which to place it, and I shall move the world" Ever considered why doors have hinges? Without them, doors are just fancy, overpriced boards. Much like the hinges, our habits connect our actions to our mental well-being. Research from the University College London suggests it takes 66 days on average to form a habit. Consider that the time investment for greasing those mental door hinges. Joining the Puzzle Pieces Imagine each habit as a puzzle piece. Alone, they are intriguing but incomplete. Collect enough of them, and you might just create the Mona Lisa ( ). or at least something vaguely resembling a smile The trick lies in identifying the right pieces and fitting them together. This is where comes into play. It’s the missing piece to your mental health puzzle. Dandelion The Power of Dandelion Dandelion, the delightfully magical app (much like its namesake plant), uncomplicates the process of habit formation. Now, you're probably wondering how? With Dandelion, you won't have to rummage through a pile of convoluted research papers or self-help books. The makers of Dandelion have sifted through all the fluff for you. They've delivered a seamless, time-efficient platform that makes habit-building a cinch. Dandelion cleverly integrates scientific research into its core functionalities, providing insights on habit formation and offering guidance on maintaining them. It's as simple as making a cup of tea ( ). and who doesn't enjoy a nice hot cuppa? https://www.dandelionhq.xyz/?ref=hackernoon&embedable=true Wrapping it Up… - Chinese Proverb "Do not be afraid of improving slowly. Be afraid of standing still" Don't anticipate a magic wand transformation overnight. Building affirmative mental habits is akin to a cross-country road trip, not a sprint. It's the little things that eventually add up. Start a gratitude journal, practice a few minutes of mindfulness, or indulge in an interesting hobby. With Dandelion, you can plant these seeds of wholesome habits that will ultimately grow into a beautiful bouquet of mental wellness. So, why hold back? The first piece of your mental wellness puzzle is ready! Allow Dandelion to take you on a journey toward a more harmonious, jovial you! And remember, a single habit doesn't crack the whole puzzle (or mess it), but it sure helps you to get started!

Undoing the Knots of Mind — One Habit at a Time

THE SPANISH COPRIS: THE HABITS OF THE MOTHER

More Beetles by Jean-Henri Fabre, is part of the HackerNoon Books Series. You can jump to any chapter in this book here . THE GOLD BEETLES: THEIR NUPTIAL HABITS CHAPTER XIV. THE GOLD BEETLES: THEIR NUPTIAL HABITS It is admitted that, as an ardent destroyer of caterpillars and Slugs, the Gold Beetle has pre-eminently earned his title of “Gardener”: he is the watchful keeper of our kitchen-gardens and our flower-borders. If my enquiries add nothing to his established reputation in this respect, they will at least, in what follows, display the insect in an as yet unsuspected light. The ferocious eater, the ogre devouring any prey not beyond his powers, is eaten in his turn. And by whom? By his own kin and many others. We will begin by naming two of his enemies, the Fox and the Toad, who, in hard times, for lack of anything better, do not disdain such lean and caustic mouthfuls. When telling the story of the Trox, I described how the excreta of the Fox, which are easily recognized by the Rabbit’s-fur whereof they largely consist, are sometimes encrusted with Gold Beetles’ wing-cases: the ordure is adorned with sheets of gold. This testifies to the bill of fare. It is not highly nourishing nor particularly plentiful and it tastes bitter; but, after all, a few Carabi help to stay the appetite a little. As regards the Toad, I have similar evidence. In summer, in the garden-paths, from time to time I happen on some curious objects whose origin at first leaves me quite undecided. They are small black sausages, the thickness of my little finger, which crumble very easily after drying in the sun. We recognize a conglomeration of Ants’ heads and nothing besides, unless it be some remnants of slender leg. What can this singular product be, this granular amalgam consisting of hundreds and hundreds of heads packed close together? One’s mind turns to a ball disgorged by the Owl after the nourishing part has been sorted by the stomach. Further reflection discards the idea: a nocturnal bird of prey, though fond of insects, does not feed on such tiny game as this. To catch on the sticky tip of the tongue such very small fry and to collect them one by one calls for a consumer endowed with plenty of time and patience. Who is it? Could it be the Toad? I see no other in the enclosure to whom I can attribute a salmagundy of Ants. Experiment will solve the riddle for us. I have an old acquaintance in the garden and I know where he lives. We often meet at the hour of my evening rounds. He looks at me with his gold-yellow eyes and gravely passes on to attend to his business. He is a Toad big enough to fill a saucer, a veteran respected by the whole household. We call him the Philosopher. I apply to him to elucidate the question of the conglomerations of Ants’ heads. I imprison him in a cage, without any food, and wait until the contents of his sated paunch undergo the labours of digestion. Things do not take very long. After a few days’ time, the prisoner presents me with a specimen of black ordure, moulded into a cylinder, exactly resembling those which I observe on the paths of the enclosure. It is, like the others, an amalgam of Ants’ heads. I restore the Philosopher to liberty. Thanks to him, the problem which puzzled me so greatly is solved: I know for certain that the Toad is a great eater of Ants, a very small quarry, it is true, but easy to collect and inexhaustible. It is not always a free choice on his part. He prefers larger mouthfuls when available. He lives mainly on Ants because they abound in the enclosure, whereas the other insects running on the surface of the ground are comparatively scarce. If occasionally the glutton finds more sumptuous fare, he appreciates the feast all the more highly. In evidence of these unusual banquets, I will mention certain dejecta found in the enclosure and composed almost entirely of Gold Beetles’ wing-cases. The remainder of the product, the paste joining the golden scales together, consisted of Ants’ heads, the authentic work of the consumer. So the Toad feeds on Carabi when he has the opportunity. He, our garden helper, robs us of another helper no less valuable. The useful, from our point of view, destroys the useful: a little lesson which should modify our ingenuous belief that all things are created for our service. There is worse to come. The Gold Beetle, the policeman who, in our gardens, keeps an eye on the misdeeds of the caterpillar and the Slug, is guilty of the vice of cannibalism. One day, in the shadow of the plane-trees outside my door, I see one passing very busily. The pilgrim is welcome: he will increase by one the colony in my vivarium. As I capture him, I perceive that the tips of his wing-cases are slightly damaged. Is this the result of a fight between rivals? There is nothing to tell me. The great thing is that the Beetle should not be handicapped by a serious injury. I examine him, find that he is unwounded and fit for service and put him among the twenty-five occupants of the glass cage. Next day, I look for the new inmate. He is dead. His comrades have attacked him during the night and cleaned out his abdomen, which was inadequately protected by the injured wing-cases. The operation was very neatly done, without any mutilation. Legs, head, corselet are all in their right places; only the abdomen has a wide opening through which its contents have been removed. What we see is a sort of golden shell formed of two connected wing-cases. An Oyster-shell emptied of its mollusc looks no cleaner. This result astonishes me, for I take very good care that the cage is never without provisions. The Snail, the Cockchafer, the Praying Mantis, the Earthworm, the caterpillar and other favourite dishes alternate in my refectory in more than sufficient quantities. My Gold Beetles therefore had not the excuse of hunger in devouring a brother whose damaged armour lent itself to easy attack. Can it be their custom to finish off the wounded and to ransack the stomach of an injured kinsman? Pity is unknown among the insects. At the sight of the desperate struggles of a crippled relation, not one of the same race will stop, not one will try to help him. With carnivorous insects, matters may take an even more tragic turn. Sometimes the passers-by will run up to the invalid. Do they do so in order to assist him? Not at all: they do it to see what he tastes like and, if they find him good, to cure his ills thoroughly by devouring him. It is therefore possible that the Carabus with the damaged wing-cases tempted his comrades by the sight of his partly denuded body. They saw in their helpless brother a prey which it was lawful to dissect. But do they respect one another when there is no previous injury? At first sight, everything would seem to show that their relations are very peaceful. There is never any scuffling between the feasters at their meals, nothing but mouth-to-mouth robberies. Nor are there any quarrels during the long siestas under the cover of the board. Half-buried in the cool earth, my five-and-twenty specimens quietly slumber and digest their food, at no great distance one from the other, each in his little trench. If I take away the shelter, they awake, make off, run hither and thither, constantly meeting without molesting one another. Profound peace therefore prevails and seems likely to last for ever when, on inspecting the cage during the first heats of June, I find a dead Carabus. His limbs are intact; he is very neatly reduced to a mere golden husk; he shows us once more what we saw in the helpless Beetle who was lately devoured; he reminds us of the shell of the eaten Oyster. I examine the remains. But for the huge breach in the abdomen, all is as it should be. So the insect was in good health when the others gutted it. A few days later, yet another Carabus is slain and treated like the others, with all the various pieces of the armour undisturbed. If we lay him on his belly, he seems as though intact; if we lay him on his back, he is hollow, without a scrap of flesh left inside his carapace. A little later I find another empty relic, then another, and yet another, until my menagerie is rapidly diminishing. If this frenzied slaughter continues, I shall soon have nothing left in the vivarium. Can it be that my Gold Beetles, worn out by age, die a natural death or that the females batten on the corpses, or is the population being reduced at the expense of hale and hearty subjects? It is not easy to elucidate the matter, for the disembowelling usually takes place at night. Nevertheless, by exerting vigilance, I twice succeed in observing the autopsy by daylight. In the middle of June, before my eyes a female sets to work upon a male, whom I recognize as such by his rather smaller size. The operation begins. Lifting the ends of the wing-cases, the assailant seizes her victim by the tip of the abdomen, on the dorsal surface. Eagerly she tugs and munches. The captive, though in the pink of condition, does not defend himself, does not turn round. He pulls his hardest in the opposite direction, to release himself from the terrible mandibles; he moves this way or that, according as he is dragging his aggressor or being dragged by her; and here his resistance ends. The combat lasts a quarter of an hour. Other Beetles passing by, stop, as though to say: “My turn next.” At last, redoubling his efforts, the male frees himself and escapes. No doubt, if he had not succeeded in getting away, he would have had his belly gutted by the fearsome dame. A few days later I witness a similar scene, but this time the tragedy is completed. Once more it is a female who seizes a male from behind. The bitten one submits with no more protest than his vain efforts to release himself. The skin at last gives way, the wound widens, the viscera are rooted out and swallowed by the matron, who empties the carapace with her head buried in her compeer’s belly. The tremors of the poor wretch’s legs announce his approaching end. The murderess takes no notice and continues to rummage as far up as the narrow entrance to the thorax allows her to go. Nothing is left of the deceased but the wing-cases, packed boat-wise, and the fore-part of the body, which is not disjointed. The empty remains are abandoned where they lie. So must have perished the Gold Beetles, always males, whose relics I find from time to time in the cage; thus the survivors too must perish. Between the middle of June and the first of August, the inmates, numbering twenty-five at the outset, are reduced to five females. All the twenty males have disappeared, ripped open and drained dry. And by whom? Apparently by the females. This is borne out by the two assaults which chance permitted me to witness; twice, in broad daylight, I saw the female devour the male after opening his belly under the wing-cases, or at least trying to do so. As for the rest of the murders, though direct observation be lacking, I have one very valuable piece of evidence. As we have seen, the captive does not retaliate, does not defend himself; he merely strives to escape by pulling as hard as he can. If it were a simple fight, an ordinary scuffle such as life’s rivalries may lead to, the Beetle attacked would obviously turn round, since he is in a position to do so; in a close tussle, he would retort on the aggressor and give bite for bite. His strength enables him to wage a battle which might turn to his advantage; and the fool allows his rump to be gnawed with impunity. It looks as though an invincible repugnance prevents him from retaliating by eating a bit of her who is eating him. This tolerance reminds me of the Languedocian Scorpion, who, after his wedding, allows himself to be devoured by his mate without using his weapon, the poisoned sting which is quite capable of killing the virago; it reminds me of the Praying Mantis’ swain, who is sometimes reduced to a mere stump and, in spite of all, continues his unfinished work while he is being chewed in little mouthfuls, without the least expression of revolt. These are nuptial rites against which the male is not entitled to protest. 1 2 The males in my collection of Gold Beetles, from the first to the last eviscerated, tell us of similar habits. They are the victims of their mates when these have had their fill of matrimony. During four months, from April to July, couples form daily, sometimes only tentatively, sometimes and more often concluding in effective pairing. There is no end to it with these fiery temperaments. The Carabus is expeditious in his love-affairs. A male passing in the crowd flings himself upon a female, the first that comes, without any previous flirting. The she thus bestridden lifts her head a little as a sign of acquiesence, while her rider whips her neck with the tips of his antennæ. When the coupling is finished—and it does not take long—the two separate abruptly, recuperate their strength by a mouthful of the Snail served up for their food, after which they both get married again, the wedding being repeated so long as males remain available. After feasting, a brutal wooing; after the wooing, more feasting: this sums up the Gold Beetle’s life. The ladies in my menagerie were not in proportion to the number of suitors: there were five females to twenty males. No matter: there was no rivalry, no exchange of blows; a most peaceful use and abuse was made of the passing fair. With this mutual tolerance, sooner or later, many times over and according to the chance of the encounters, each one finds the wherewithal to satisfy his ardour. I should have preferred a more evenly divided assembly. Luck, not choice, gave me that which I had at my disposal. I collected in early spring all the Gold Beetles that I could find under the stones around, without distinction of sex, which is not easy to recognize merely by external characteristics. Afterwards, as I reared them in my cages, I learnt that a slight excess in size was the distinctive sign of the females. My menagerie, so unequal in the numerical relation of the sexes, was therefore a fortuitous result. It seems likely that this proportion of males does not exist under natural conditions. On the other hand, such numerous groups are never seen at liberty, sheltered under the same stone. The Gold Beetle leads an almost solitary life; it is rare to find two or three gathered at one spot. The assembly in my menagerie is therefore exceptional, although it does not lead to disorder. There is plenty of room in the glass cage for distant rambles and for all the usual diversions. He who wants to be alone remains alone; he who wants company soon finds it. For that matter, captivity does not seem to trouble them unduly, as is shown by the frequent feasting and their daily repeated mating. They could thrive no better if at liberty in the fields: perhaps they would not thrive so well, for food is not so abundant there as in the cage. As regards comfort, therefore, the prisoners are in a normal condition favouring the preservation of their usual habits. Only, meetings of kinsfolk occur more often here than in the open. This, no doubt, affords the females better opportunities to persecute the males for whom they have no further use, to grab them by the rump and disembowel them. This hunting of the bygone lovers is aggravated but certainly not innovated by the too close vicinity: such customs are never improvised. When the mating is over, a female meeting a male in the open must then treat him as fair game and munch him up in order to close the matrimonial rites. I have turned over many stones but have never chanced upon this spectacle; no matter: what I saw in the cage is enough to convince me. What a world the Gold Beetle lives in, where the matron devours her partner when she no longer needs him to fertilize her ovaries! And how lightly do the laws of creation hold the males, to allow them to be butchered in this way! Are these fits of cannibalism following upon love widely distributed? For the moment I know only three really characteristic examples: those of the Praying Mantis, the Languedocian Scorpion and the Golden Carabus. The horror of the lover converted into prey is also found in the Locustian tribe, though accompanied by less brutality, for the victim devoured is now a dead and not a living insect. The female of the White-faced Decticus is quite willing to nibble a leg of the defunct male. The Green Grasshopper behaves likewise. 3 4 To a certain degree the nature of the diet acts as an excuse: Dectici and Grasshoppers are first and foremost carnivores. Coming upon a corpse of their own species, the matrons consume it more or less thoroughly, even if it be that of last night’s lover. Considered as game, one is as good as another. But what shall we say of the vegetarians? As the laying-season approaches, the Ephippiger turns upon her companion, still full of life, and bites him, makes a hole in his belly and eats as much of him as her appetite allows. The easy-going Cricket suddenly develops a shrewish character: she beats the mate who lately wooed her in such impassioned serenades; she rends his wings, breaks his fiddle and even goes so far as to tear a few mouthfuls from the musician. So it seems probable that this mortal aversion of the female for the male after the pairing is fairly common, especially among the carnivorous insects. What is the reason of these atrocious habits? If circumstances favour me, I shall not fail to investigate it. 5 Of the whole colony in the cage I have five females left at the beginning of August. Their conduct has changed greatly since the eating of the males. Food has become indifferent to them. They no longer run up to the Snail, whom I serve half-stripped of his shell; they scorn the plump Mantis and the Caterpillar, their erstwhile delights; they doze under the shelter of the board and rarely show themselves. Can this mean preparation for the laying? I enquire into this day by day, being most anxious to see the first appearance of the little larvæ, an artless first appearance, deprived of all solicitude, as I foresee from the lack of industry in the mother. I wait in vain: there is no laying. Meanwhile the cool nights of October arrive. Four females perish, this time by a natural death. The survivor takes no notice of them. She refuses them burial in her stomach, a burial at one time accorded to the males, dissected alive. She cowers as deep down in the ground as the scanty earth of the cage permits. In November, when Mont Ventoux is white with the first snows, she grows torpid in her hiding-place. Let us henceforth leave her in peace. She will live through the winter, everything seems to tell us, and produce her eggs next spring. About HackerNoon Book Series: We bring you the most important technical, scientific, and insightful public domain books. This book is part of the public domain. Jean-Henri Fabre (2022). More Beetles. Urbana, Illinois: Project Gutenberg. Retrieved October https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/67201/pg67201-images.html This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org , located at https://www.gutenberg.org/policy/license.html .

THE GOLD BEETLES: THEIR NUPTIAL HABITS

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This is by (source: ). Sanchez is an investor. Twitter thread Codie Sanches @Codie_Sanchez 03-22-2023 https://twitter.com/codie_sanchez/status/1638534501444866050?s=46&t=hLXLvA2wSOmlARX4ZS1fvA&embedable=true&thread=true Feature image generated via prompt of ‘Robot in the life’ HackerNoon Stable Diffusion

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